Mentoring
This document was drawn up to outline and clarify the role of mentoring on Kids’ Own residency projects with input from artist Ann Henderson, who has worked extensively with Kids’ Own both as artist and as a mentor. The role of mentoring on Kids’ Own residency projects. Kids’ Own believes in the value of the space offered by the mentor which can be used by the artist in whichever way they chose and is of most benefit to them in their work. Kids’ Own seeks to engage a mentor for artists working on residency projects where desired and where funding is available to do so. The role of the mentor is to provide a support for the artist through discussion about the project work. This may range from practical issues to more conceptual/ philosophical thoughts as directed by the artist according to their own needs. It is felt by Kids’ Own that this support role provides a ‘space’ for the artist to reflect on the work that is being done and to invite feedback from an ‘outside’ / independent person who also has experience in the area. The mentor engages in the process from the position of “peer practitioner” and will not necessarily be considered ‘senior’ in any way to the artist undertaking the residency but will have experience in similar projects and will offer an outside perspective. Whilst the mentor may advise the artist on particular matters if invited to do so the general intent is to create a space where the mentor promotes relevant dialogue encouraging reflection and questioning from wider and alternative perspectives. The ‘space’ offered by the mentorship is confidential between the artist and the ‘mentor’. However the mentor will be asked to submit a brief report at the end of residency projects, in which they will present a summary of thoughts and recommendations based on the feedback from the artists, as a means for Kids’ Own to assess the artists’ experience and continue to improve residencies for artists. No reference shall be made by the mentor to specific artists or their work in this report. Should the artist raise issues with the mentor that relate to management of projects or practical issues that would be of concern to Kids’ Own, the mentor may recommend that the artist communicate with Kids’ Own directly about these matters. The mentoring does not seek to remove Kids’ Own from the artistic process and Kids’ Own would continue to maintain direct contact with all the artists during the course of the project. Therefore, between Kids’ Own and the mentoring there are two strands of support offered to the artist: one which relates to practical, administrative, logistical issues and communication with teachers/ schools etc., and another level of support which relates to the artist’s reflection on their own practice and their progress on a more personal level within a particular residency. Artists are encouraged to avail of mentoring where it is offered, as this is intended to be supportive and enriching for their own progress and development. However, it is not obligatory and artists should state to Kids’ Own at the outset of a project if they do not wish to avail. In entering into partnership around mentoring both the mentor and the artist should be aware that the success of the process requires commitment from both parties. The mentoring service is also viewed as a service that contributes positively to the workings of the project as a whole.
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